Beginners · 3 min read

A beginner's guide to your first group class

What to bring, what happens, and how a first HIIT or barbell class at Sanctuary Fitness is scaled so a complete beginner keeps up.

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What to bring, what happens, and how a first HIIT or barbell class at Sanctuary Fitness is scaled so a complete beginner keeps up.

Most people who join Sanctuary Fitness have never done a class in a private gym. This is what the first one is like.

Section

Before you come

Message Stevie on WhatsApp so he knows you are coming and what you are working with: injuries, how long since you last trained, anything you are nervous about. Trainers, comfortable clothes, water. That is the kit list.

The first ten minutes

A warm-up everybody does together. It is where the coach sees how you move and decides how to scale the session for you.

The session

Classes run in small groups. Regulars and beginners do the same session at different loads and paces. A kettlebell swing might be 8kg for you and 24kg for the person beside you. Nobody is watching you; they are busy with their own set.

Afterwards

You will be sore for two days the first time. That is normal and fades fast. The second class is easier than the first, and by the fourth you know the gym.

Which class first

  • Nervous about lifting: book a Personal Training slot first. The basics get taught properly there.
  • Want to sweat: Monday 5:40pm or Tuesday 6am Sanctuary Conditioning.
  • Want to get strong: Tuesday 5:40pm or Wednesday 6am Sanctuary Strength.

Reading is the easy part. Message Stevie, free ten-minute chat

Questions

Quick answers.

Do I need to be fit to start?

No. The class is scaled to you on the day.

Is there somewhere to change?

Yes, at the gym in Spectrum House.

Can I watch a class first?

You are better doing one. Message Stevie for a free consult.

On the site: classes for Sanctuary Conditioning, Strength, Functional and Total · training for football, runners and golf · holiday prep, Christmas, January and summer · start here.

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Reading about it is the easy part. Message me, tell me where you are starting from, and I will say what I would do first and whether the gym suits you. Free ten-minute consult, no contract.

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